OLD-WORLD EXTRA

56  New Power They both leaned in, eager to hear what he had to say about the relics.

"The first relic you brought in is a small figurine toy made of pure gold. It's an ancient artifact from the old world, and it's estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Based on the intricate carvings and the attention to detail, it's believed to have been owned by someone of great wealth and status."

Kiera's eyes widened.

"Wow, that's amazing. What's it worth?"

The dealer smiled and said, "Based on the current market value for ancient artifacts, I'd say it's worth at least 10 million UC."

Emir's jaw almost dropped in shock, "10 million UC?!"

The dealer nodded, "Yes, it's quite a valuable piece. And the second relic is just as interesting. It's a small book with a leather cover, written in a language that is no longer used, lost in the old world. Our experts were able to translate some of it, and it seems to be a diary or journal of some kind."

He leaned in and asked, "What did they find?"

"Well, it's hard to say for certain, but it seems to be the diary of a man who lived during the time of the Old World. He wrote about his experiences and adventures, and there are even some drawings and maps included. It would sell for a lot to those collectors. It's a rare find, to say the least."

Kiera eyed Emir.

"That sounds incredible. What do you think it's worth?"

The dealer smiled again and said, "Based on its historical significance and rarity, I'd say it's worth at least 40 million UC."

Emir shook his head in disbelief.

"50 million UC for two relics? That's more than I've ever seen in my life."

The dealer let out a chuckle.

"It's clear that Old World relics still hold great value, even after all these years. As for the other relics, they're not as unique, but they can still be sold to companies looking to compete against the big eight. So, even though they aren't worth much individually, they can still fetch a good price. Altogether, you'll receive 60 million UC, with the appraisal cost already deducted."

"There's no need for you to come back for the two relics that require a detailed appraisal. I'll transfer the money to you when the time comes." He gestured to the ID reader, and Emir scanned his hunter ID over it until it beeped.

"I hope to see both of you again, with your eye for quality, I'm sure you'll find many more valuable items to bring to me."

They thanked the dealer and left his shop, both of them feeling overwhelmed by the amount of money Emir had made.

"I appreciate your help today, so I would like to buy you something before we leave the market. Is there anything you need or want?" He said as they walked through the black market.

Kiera gave him a small smile.

"I don't need anything, but if you really want to buy me something, how about we go grab some food? I'm starving."

Emir laughed and said, "Food it is then. Let's go find something good to eat."

They walked through the crowded market, searching for a place to eat.

The smells of different foods filled the air, and his stomach growled at the thought of getting something to eat.

Finally, they found a small food stand tucked away in a corner of the market.

The sign outside read 'Mama's Kitchen,' and the smell of freshly cooked food wafted from inside.

They approached the stand, and a friendly-looking woman greeted them.

"Welcome to Mama's Kitchen. What can I get for you?"

Kiera and Emir looked at each other, both unsure of what to order.

The woman noticed their hesitation and smiled, saying, "If you're not sure what to get, I recommend our special dish of the day. It's a traditional dish from my home country, and it's one of our most popular items."

They eyed each other again and nodded.

"We'll take the special dish of the day."

The woman nodded and started to prepare their food.

As they waited, he looked around the market, taking in the sights and sounds.

It was a lively and bustling place, filled with people from all walks of life, some looked to be beggars while others had the walk of an Elite.

Soon, their food was ready, and they sat down at a nearby table to eat.

The dish was delicious, with a perfect balance of spices and flavors.

They ate in silence, enjoying the food and the atmosphere of the place.

After they finished their meal, Emir settled the bill of 40,000 UC before they strolled around the bustling market, taking in the sights and sounds of various stalls and shops.

But just as they passed a relic merchant, he looked to his side only to see that Kiera was getting worn out, so he proposed that they head back to the base.

And while walking back, a sense of satisfaction washed over him.

The relics had earned him a significant sum, setting him up for a good upgrade, and her help in finding them was invaluable.

He simply felt grateful for her assistance, something he hasn't felt for a while.

"So... Kiera, do you come to the black market often?" He asked casually.

She looked at him, her eyes sparkling with joviality.

"You mean besides the fact that we just spent the whole day there?"

He chuckled.

"Well, yeah, besides that. I meant, do you come here often on your own?"

She shrugged, "Not really. The only time I'm there is to sell relics and I'm usually too busy with work to go there for fun. But I have to admit, it's been a really great day."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it. I had a great time too, especially with your company."

Kiera blushed slightly, causing Emir to feel a surge of amusement.

They continued with their conversation which bordered on being flirtatious and finally reached the entrance to the base.

Two men were guarding the outside, and a cart filled with ammo of several types was in between them.

They stopped in front of the gate, and Emir turned to face Kiera.

"Well, good job today, I guess, and um... you know, Emir, I know that our gang is too weak for a hunter like you, but I can't help but ask you to join us."

"So, please, would you consider joining us?" She asked with desperation in her voice.

Quite the popular guy he is.

GoldenStache